Workers' Compensation:
Correctional Officers
Hagerstown Workers' Compensation for Correctional Officers
Working as a correctional officer in Maryland is both demanding and perilous. With the profession’s high risk of violent assaults and injuries, understanding your rights under Maryland workers’ compensation laws is crucial. According to recent data, correctional officers experience a significantly higher rate of workplace injuries compared to the average American worker. If you’re a correctional officer in Maryland, you’re likely aware of the inherent dangers of your job, which is why it’s vital to be informed about your legal rights and protections, especially in the event of a work-related injury or illness.
Latest Legislative Updates: Public Safety Workers’ Compensation Law in Maryland
In recent years, Maryland has expanded its workers’ compensation coverage to include more public safety employees. On May 15, 2018, Governor Larry Hogan signed House Bill 205 into law, officially categorizing correctional officers as “public safety personnel.” This designation offers enhanced workers’ compensation benefits, including more favorable compensation rates and coverage for specific job-related illnesses. This legislative update is crucial for correctional officers, as it broadens the scope of benefits available to those who sustain injuries or illnesses while on duty.
The bill, introduced by Delegate Luke Clippinger, extends these enhanced benefits to workers’ compensation claims filed after October 1, 2018. This update ensures that public safety employees, including correctional officers, receive equitable treatment under Maryland’s workers’ compensation laws.
Common Injuries Covered by Maryland Workers' Compensation for Correctional Officers
Maryland’s workers’ compensation program covers a wide range of injuries and illnesses that correctional officers might sustain while performing their duties. Due to the nature of their work, correctional officers are frequently at risk of physical assaults, accidents during inmate altercations, and exposure to hazardous substances. Common injuries include broken bones, sprains, and occupational diseases resulting from exposure to bodily fluids or other dangerous substances.
Work-related diseases, particularly heart disease and hypertension, are also recognized as occupational hazards for correctional officers in certain Maryland counties. If you work in Montgomery, Anne Arundel, or Prince George’s counties, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if you develop these conditions due to your job.
Understanding Maryland Workers' Compensation for Correctional Officers
Correctional officers in Maryland are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which are specifically designed to support injured public safety workers and their families. These benefits provide financial assistance for medical expenses, wage replacement, and other related costs. If you’re a correctional officer who has been injured or fallen ill due to your job, it’s important to consult with a qualified workers’ compensation attorney to ensure that you receive the full benefits you deserve.
Maryland Workers' Compensation Benefits for Correctional Officers
If you qualify for workers’ compensation benefits as a Maryland correctional officer, you may be entitled to various forms of assistance, including:
- Medical Coverage: Workers’ compensation will cover your current and future medical expenses related to your work injury or illness, ensuring that you receive the necessary treatment without financial burden.
- Wage Replacement: If your injury or illness prevents you from working, you may receive wage replacement benefits equivalent to a portion of your lost income.
- Disability Benefits: These benefits compensate you for any permanent or temporary disabilities that result from your work injury, affecting your ability to perform your job or daily activities.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: If your injury or illness requires you to change your career, vocational rehabilitation services, including job training and education, may be available to help you transition to a new occupation.
Special Workers' Compensation Provisions for Maryland Correctional Officers
Correctional officers in Maryland may also be eligible for enhanced workers’ compensation benefits that go beyond those offered to private sector employees. These special provisions recognize the unique risks faced by public safety workers and provide additional protections, including:
- Presumption of Occupational Disease: For certain conditions like heart disease and hypertension, the law presumes that these are work-related if specific criteria are met. This presumption makes it easier to receive compensation unless the employer or insurance company can provide evidence to the contrary.
- Increased Disability Compensation: As a state or local government employee, you may be entitled to higher disability payments than those available to private sector workers with the same medical condition. This can result in significantly higher compensation, particularly for serious injuries or long-term illnesses.
Occupational Diseases and Presumptions for Correctional Officers
Maryland law provides a legal presumption for certain occupational diseases that affect correctional officers. This means that if you meet specific criteria, your condition may automatically be considered work-related, making it easier to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. However, this presumption applies only if you:
- Are diagnosed with heart disease or hypertension
- Experience a disability as a result of the condition
- Have a medical examination on record prior to employment showing that the condition developed during your service
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied despite these criteria, seeking the assistance of a skilled attorney is essential. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the appeals process and fight for the compensation you are entitled to under Maryland law.
Why You Need a Maryland Workers' Compensation Attorney
Navigating the complexities of Maryland workers’ compensation law can be challenging, especially when dealing with the aftermath of a serious injury or illness. A specialized workers’ compensation attorney with experience in representing correctional officers can provide invaluable assistance. They can help you understand your rights, gather necessary documentation, and ensure that your claim is handled fairly and efficiently.
At Sarro Proctor Law we are committed to helping Maryland correctional officers secure the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through every step of the process, from filing your claim to representing you in appeals, ensuring that you have the best possible chance of receiving full compensation.
Contact Sarro Proctor Law for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, it’s important to seek legal support right away. At Sarro Proctor Law, we provide experienced representation for a wide range of injury cases, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Our dedicated team is here to protect your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process.
Contact us today for a free consultation by calling (301) 745-3330 or emailing us at [email protected]. We’re here to help you get the support you need to move forward.
OUR PROCESS
Meet with the lawyer to discuss your injury, how it occurred, and review your case to determine eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits.
Your lawyer helps file the official claim with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission, ensuring all required documentation is complete and accurate.
The employer and their insurance company review the claim, and your lawyer will handle any communication or disputes that arise regarding the claim.
As you receive medical treatment, your lawyer ensures that all medical records are collected and submitted, which will be crucial for supporting your claim.
If there is a dispute about your benefits or if your claim is denied, your lawyer will negotiate a settlement or represent you in a hearing before the Workers’ Compensation Commission.
Once the claim is approved, your lawyer helps ensure you receive the benefits owed, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, or permanent disability compensation.
If your claim is denied or the benefits are insufficient, your lawyer can file an appeal and guide you through the next steps to fight for the compensation you deserve.
SARRO PROCTOR LAW
CONTACT SARRO PROCTOR LAW
If you’re dealing with workers’ compensation, personal injury, or a car accident, Sarro Proctor Law is here to help. Our experienced team in Hagerstown, MD, is ready to fight for your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the legal support you need.